Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour spent several hours in DeSoto County on Thursday campaigning for Senator Merle Flowers. Barbour’s visit marked the second time this summer that he has campaigned in DeSoto for Flowers, one of his strongest Republican allies in the Senate.
“I want to make it real plain, that in this state Senate election, I’m for Merle Flowers,” Barbour told a roaring crowd of over 250 Flowers supporters. He praised Flowers for helping change the funding law for high-growth school districts, giving DeSoto County Schools an additional $53 million in new funds since 2004. Citing Flowers’ strong conservative record, Barbour commended Flowers for helping dig Mississippi out of a $720 million budget shortfall and balancing the state budget, without raising taxes. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with Merle, and he will make the tough votes,” said Barbour.
State Treasurer Tate Reeves (R-Flowood) and Senator Terry Brown (R-Columbus) also spoke at the Flowers rally. “Merle is a conservative Republican, and I’m glad to come to DeSoto County and help my friend get re-elected,” said Reeves. Brown touted Flowers’ accomplishments over the past four years, saying, “Merle is one of the best Senators in the Mississippi legislature.”
Flowers was joined by his wife Stacey and their three children. He thanked supporters and spoke of his conservative voting record, highlighting a visionary agenda for the next four years. “I am very humbled by the outpouring of support our community has given to me and my family during this campaign,” said Flowers. “With your help, we have an opportunity to have four more years of strong, conservative leadership. I hope you, your family, and all of your friends go to the polls on Tuesday and vote for Flowers.”
Merle Flowers Campaign Release
8/6/7
Magnolia Tribune
